Puffinosis, a Virus Epizootic of the Manx Shearwater (Puffinus p. puffinus)

Abstract

IN the years 1946 and 1947, epizootics have been observed among the manx shearwaters on the island of Skomer off the Pembrokeshire coast¹. The birds affected have been juveniles nearly ready to leave the island. The disease is characterized by the occurrence of large blisters on the web, either plantar or dorsal surfaces. In 1946 severe conjunctivitis was also a notable feature, but was rare in 1947. Some birds show spasm of the legs shortly before death. It is estimated that at least 90 per cent of the birds with clinical signs die of the disease.